ODOT has created a new Active Transportation Section, bringing together the state’s myriad of programs primarily related to bicycle and pedestrian projects to ensure they are better coordinated and more strategic.

ODOT's funding structure- particularly the State Highway Fund- is overwhelmingly dedicated to highway programs and limits the state's ability to strategically invest in other modes. As a result, ODOT has had to be creative using discretionary funds and other resources that are directed to non-highway programs. However, various programs, such as the state Bicycle/Pedestrian Program, Transportation Enhancements, Scenic Byways, and others have naturally operated independently based on their own funding cycles, rather than as an integrated set of programs.

While the state has used these programs to invest in good projects that have contributed to the communities they serve, this lack of coordination may have missed opportunities to more strategically invest in the transportation system. By bringing more discipline to the process and developing a new frame of reference, ODOT hopes to better leverage limited funds to generate a larger system impact.

To achieve this goal, ODOT’s new Active Transportation Section will bring together several separate programs into a more effective and efficient whole. The vision behind this move is to integrate programs and funding sources to support the selection and delivery of projects that are multidimensional transportation projects, providing complete transportation solutions for communities and taking advantage of the unique features of each program and funding source.